Fluoride Varnish Program for Primary Care
Dental caries are the most common chronic disease in childhood. Fluoride is a natural mineral that builds strong teeth and protects against cavities. Fluoride works by making the tooth enamel (outside of the tooth) stronger and protects teeth from childhood through to senior years.
Water fluoridation is the process of adjusting the level of fluoride in a public drinking (tap) water supply to optimize the dental benefits of preventing tooth decay. Community water fluoridation is recognized as the single most effective public health measure to prevent tooth decay. In Ontario, 70 per cent of the population have access to fluoridated tap water. Unfortunately, fluoride is not added to Niagara tap water.
Fluoride varnish is a protective coating that is painted on children's teeth to help reduce caries by 30 to 35 per cent. Public Health collaborates with health care professionals to help promote better oral health and provide free, accessible fluoride varnish treatments during well-child visits for those five and under.
What to expect from this program
- Staff training on oral health education and fluoride varnish application
- Public Health detailing by a registered dental hygienist
- Free varnish and resources for patients:
- Premier Enamel Pro Varnish 5 percent sodium fluoride varnish (0.25mL containers)
- Oral health kits, including toothbrush, toothpaste, tooth eruption magnet, information on Public Health's dental programs and fluoride varnish after-care instructions
- Oral health fact sheets and posters for your office
How to enrol your practice
To learn how your practice can participate in this program, contact the Dental Program.
Resources
© Niagara Region - 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold, ON, L2V 4T7 - Phone: 905-980-6000, Toll-free: 1-800-263-7215
